FVCC Fire RescuePORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

OBJECTIVES2-5.1Identify the classification and types of fire by symbols, pictures, and color-coding as they relate to portable extinguishers (3-3.15)2-5.2Identify the portable fire extinguisher rating system (3-3.15)2-5.3Identify the appropriate extinguishers and the application procedures for the various classes of fires when given a selection of extinguishers commonly carried on fire apparatus. (3-3.15)

OBJECTIVES2-5.4Identify the operations on all commonly available fire extinguishers and agents. (3-3.15)2-5.5Identify common defects found during a visual inspection of fire extinguishers (3-3.15)

OBJECTIVES2-5.6Demonstrate extinguishing the following classes of fires using the appropriate portable fire extinguishers: (3-3.15(b))2-5.6.1Class A2-5.6.2Class BIFSTA, Essentials, 4th ed, Chapter 5Delmar, Firefighters Handbook, 2000, Chapter 8

PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERSNFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers Excellent to use on incipient fires.Can extinguish a small fire in much less than it would take to deploy a hoseline.Firefighters should not rely on extinguishers found in occupancies.Fire Extinguishers may be located at fixed positions in an occupancy or mounted on the apparatus

PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERSNFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus Requires a pumping apparatus to have 2 approved portable fire extinguishers with mounting brackets. These most be suitable for Class B and C fires. Stated Minimum size requirement: Dry Chemical Extinguishers: 80 B:C CO2: 10 B:C Also requires a 2 gallon or larger water extinguisher with a mounting bracket for use on Class A fires. (Water extinguishers should be protected against freezing which would temperatures lower than 40* F). (Freeze protection maybe be provided adding anti-freeze to the water or storage of extinguisher in warm areas).

CLASSIFICATIONS & TYPES OF FIRESClass, color, symbol, pictureClass AClass: Ordinary combustiblesWood, paper and clothingColor GreenSymbol TrianglePicture Trash can and campfire

CLASSIFICATIONS & TYPES OF FIRESClass BClass: Flammable liquidsGasoline, kerosene, alcoholColor RedSymbol SquarePicture Gasoline can

CLASSIFICATIONS & TYPES OF FIRESClass CClass: Energized electrical equipmentAny type of electrical equipment that is energizedColor BlueSymbol CirclePicture Plug and socket

CLASSIFICATIONS & TYPES OF FIRESClass DClass: Combustible metalsMagnesium, sodium chloride, lithiumColor YellowSymbol StarPicture none

PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER RATING SYSTEMClass ARated 1-A through 40-A1-A requires 1 gallons of waterRating based on tests conducted by:Underwriters Laboratories Inc (UL)Underwriters Laboratories Inc of Canada (ULC)Tests determine extinguishing capability

CLASSIFICATIONS & TYPES OF FIRESClass BRated 1-B through 640-BRating based on square foot area that a non-expert operator can extinguishNon-expert expected to extinguish 1 square foot for each numerical

CLASSIFICATIONS & TYPES OF FIRESClass CNo fire test conductedTested only for non-conductivityReceives only the letter rating

CLASSIFICATIONS & TYPES OF FIRESClass DNo numerical rating givenConsiderations for rating:Reaction between metal and agentToxicity of agentToxicity of the fumes produced and the products of combustionTime to allow metal to burn out without fire suppression efforts versus time to extinguishCannot be given a multipurpose rating

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESWater (pump tank) Class A extinguisherSizes from 1 to 5 gallonsRange 30-40 feetDischarge time 45 seconds to 3 minutesAgent discharged by pumping action of operatorNeeds freeze protection

Pump Tank Water ExtinguishersIntended for use on small Class A fires.Several kinds, all of which operate in a similar manner. Equipped with a double-acting pump.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESStored pressure water extinguisher (air pressurized water) (APW) Class A extinguisherSizes from 1 to 2 gallonsRange 30-40 feetDischarge time 30 to 60 secondsAgent discharged by compressed air stored in tankNeeds freeze protection

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESOften used for extinguishing hot spots during overall operations, as well as chimney flue fires.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESAqueous film foaming foam (AFFF) Class A and B extinguisherMost 2 gallonsRange 20-25 feetDischarge time 50 secondsAgent discharged by compressed air (or Nitrogen) stored in tank.Needs freeze protection

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) Class A and B extinguisherClass A foam concentrate acts as a wetting agent that aids in extinguishing deep seated fires, vehicle fires and wildland fires.Ineffective on Class B Polar Solvents (water soluble) Ex: Alcohol & Acetone

Two ways in which AFFF can be applied.The film of AFFF floats ahead of the foam blanket.Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) Class A and B extinguisher

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESDry chemical (hand carried) ratingsOrdinary Class B/CMultipurpose Class A, B and CSizes from 2 to 30 poundsRange 5 to 20 feetDischarge time 10 to 25 secondsAgent discharged by:Stored pressureCartridgeDoes not need freeze protection

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESOrdinary agentsSodium bicarbonatePotassium bicarbonateAmmonium phosphatePotassium chlorideMulti-purpose agentsMono-ammonium phosphateBarium sulfate

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESWheeled Units:Similar to handheld units Class A,B,C rating depending upon dry chemical components.Extinguishing agent kept in one tank; pressurized gas is stored in a separate cylinder.Hose should be stretched out completely.Caution: The top of the extinguishers should be pointed away from the firefighter or other personnel when pressurizing the unit. Because of size of nozzle, the firefighter should be prepared for a significant nozzle reaction when it is opened.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESCarbon dioxide (hand carried)Class B/C extinguisher Sizes 2 to 20 poundsRange: 3 to 6 feetDischarge time: 8 to 30 secondsAgent discharged by its own stored pressureAvoid contact with skinLarge horn, no gaugeCO2 snow formed with moisture in the air.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESWheeled Units:Class B & CCommonly used in airports and industrial facilitates. Hose (usually less than 15 ft long) must be deployed or unwound from unit before use.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESHalon: Halogenated HydrocarbonsMontreal Protocol on the Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer: International agreement requires complete phase out of the production of halogens by 2000.Exception allowed for essential uses where no suitable alternatives are available.Two most common are Halon 1211 and Halon 1301Vapor is nonconductive and is effective in extinguishing surface fires in flammable & combustible liquids and electrical equipment. Not effective on fires in self-oxidizing fuels.Primary modern application is for the protection of sensitive electronic equipment like computers.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESHalon 1211:Research suggests that Halon 1211 interrupts the chain reaction of the combustion process.Primarily used for Class B:C FiresLarge wheeled units are found up to 150 lb. In size.Stored in extinguisher as a liquefied compressed gas, but Nitrogen is added to the tank to increase discharge pressure & stream reach. Stream may be affected by wind when operated outdoors.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESHalon 1301: Normally not used by itself in portable extinguishers because the agent is discharged as a nearly invisible gas that is highly susceptible to being affected by the wind. In confined space (Computer Room) Halon 1301s volatility allows it to disperse faster than Halon 1211.Reason why Halon 1301 is agent of choice in most total flooding systems using halogenated hydrocarbons.

HalonWarning: When halon is used to extinguish a fire, it decomposes and liberates toxic components, so these agents should not be used in unventilated, confined spaces.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESDry Powder Agents:Special Extinguishing Agents and Techniques.No single agent will control or extinguish metal fires.Some agents can be applied by portable extinguishers.Other agents must be applied by either shovel or a scoop.Agent must be applied in a sufficient depth to completely cover the area that is burning to create a smothering blanket.Gentle application so as to not break the crust that may form over the burning material. If crust is broken may cause fire to flare up again. Care should be given as to not spread the burning metal.

EXTINGUISHERS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURESDry Powder Agents: (cont.)If burning material is on a combustible surface, the fire should be covered with power first.Then a 1-2 layer of powder should be spread nearby and the burning metal shoveled onto this layer with more powder as needed. After extinguishing the fire, the material should be left undisturbed.Disposal should not be attempted until the mass has cooled completely.

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSP.A.S.S.P- PullA- Aim

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSP.A.S.S. (cont.)S- SqueezeS- Sweep

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSWater (pump tank)Determine if unit is fullCarry tank to fireUnfold foot padPump with one hand and direct stream with other handSweep nozzle over entire areaMove in and complete extinguishment

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSStored pressure extinguishers water, halon, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO2)Select appropriate extinguisherPull pin, breaking plastic or wire seal

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSPoint the nozzle or horn in safe direction and discharge to ensure proper operationCarry extinguisher to fire

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSAim nozzle or horn toward fireSqueeze the carrying handleSweep nozzle at base of fireCheck that fire is outBack away from fire area

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSCartridge-operated extinguishers dry chemical, dry powderSelect appropriate extinguisherRemove hose from stored positionPosition to one side and depress activation plunger

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSCartridge-operated extinguishers dry chemical, dry powder Point the nozzle or horn to safe direction and discharge to ensure proper operationCarry extinguisher to fireAim nozzle or horn toward fire

OPERATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERSSqueeze the dischargeSweep nozzle starting near edge of fireCheck that fire is outBack away from fire area

COMMON DEFECTSCorroded or damaged shellsObstructed hoses, horn or nozzlesIllegible labels and instructionsDepleted or incorrect stored pressureUnit not completely fullDamaged nozzles, hose and fittingsTampering of lock pins and tamper sealsInspection tag out of dateLeaking hoses, gaskets, nozzles and loose labels

EXTINGUISHING FIRES WITH EXTINGUISHERSClass A 2-5.6.1 Class A Fire (pump tank)Checks to see if extinguisher is fullCarries to fire from windward side, if possibleUnfolds and steps on foot padPumps with one hand and directs stream with other handSweeps nozzle over entire areaMoves in and completes extinguishment

EXTINGUISHING FIRES WITH EXTINGUISHERSClass B and C (Carbon dioxide) For Class C fires, turn off energized electrical equipmentSelects appropriate extinguisherPulls pinPoints nozzle in safe direction and discharges to ensure proper operationCarries extinguisher to fire from windward side, if possibleAims nozzle toward fireSqueezes carrying handleSweeps at base of fireChecks fire is outBacks away from fire

a. Stored-pressure water b. Dry chemical (stored-pressure)c. AFFF d. Dry chemical (cartridge-operated)

1.____2.____3.____4.____HOMEWORK

a. Pump-tank water b. Halonc. Backpack pump-tank water d. Carbon dioxide

5.____6.____7.____8.____HOMEWORK

___ 13. If the capacity of a Class 1-A extinguisher is 1.25 gallons of water, what is the capacity of an extinguisher rated 15-A?a. 12 gallons b. 19 gallons c. 15 gallons d. 14 gallons___ 14. Firefighter A says that Class D agents cannot be given a multipurpose rating to be used on other classes of fires.Firefighter B says that no numerical rating is applied to Class D extinguishers.Who is right?a. Firefighter A b. Firefighter B c. Both A and B d. Neither A nor B___15. A multipurpose extinguisher rated 4-A, 20-B:C should extinguish a Class A fire that is ___ times larger than a 1-A fire.a. 2 b. 4 c. 6 d. 8___ 16. What capacity Class B fire should the extinguisher in Question g be capable of extinguishing?a. 20 times as much as a 1-B extinguisherb. 20 times as much as a B-C extinguisherc. 20 times as much as a Class C extinguisherd. 20 times as much as a 4-A extinguisherHOMEWORK

___ 17. What size flammable liquid fire should the extinguisher in Question g be able to extinguish? a. 20 ft2 b. 4 ft2 (0.37 m2) c. 40 ft2 d. 12 ft2 (1.12 m2)___ 18. Firefighter A says that Class C fires are essentially Class A or Class B fires involving energized electrical equipment.Firefighter B says that the Class C designation just confirms that the extinguishing agent is nonconductive.Who is right?a. Firefighter A b. Firefighter B c. Both A and B d. Neither A nor B___ 19. Which of the following is not a factor considered when testing extinguishing agents and portable extinguishers for Class D fires?a. Toxicity of the agentb. Toxicity of the fumes produced and the products of combustionc. Reactions between the burning metal and the agentd. Reactions between the extinguisher metal and the agent20. Firefighter A says that an extinguisher that is not marked with its class rating should be used only on Class A fires.Firefighter B says that extinguishers can be rated B-C but cannot be rated A-C.Who is right?a. Firefighter A b. Firefighter B c. Both A and B d. Neither A nor BHOMEWORK

___ 21. Extinguishers suitable for Class C fires should be identified by a ___ containing the letter C.a. Square b. Triangle c. Circle d. Star___ 22. What water capacity is required for an extinguisher to receive a 1-A classification?a. gallon b. 1 gallons c. 1 gallon d. 1 gallons___ 23. What is the number of the NFPA Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers?a. 10 b. 20 c. 30 d. 40___ 24. Which of the following classes of extinguishers receive a numerical rating in addition to a letter classification?a. B and C b. C and D c. A and C d. A and BHOMEWORK

___ 25. Firefighter A says that when an extinguishing agent is determined to be safe and effective for use on combustible metal, it is assigned a Star 1 5 rating.Firefighter B says that no numerical rating is given to Class D extinguishers.Who is right?a. Firefighter A b. Firefighter B c. Both A and B d. Neither A nor B___ 26. Upon what are Class B ratings based?a. The approximate square-foot area of a flammable liquid fire that a non expert can extinguishB. The amount of extinguishing agent and duration and range of discharge used in extinguishing test firesc. The conductivity of the extinguishing agentd. The area of the fire and the type and flammability of the fuelHOMEWORK

Match extinguisher symbol shapes to fire classification letters. Write the correct letters on the blanks.a.Ab.Bc.Cd.D _____ 27. _____ 29. _____ 28. _____ 30. HOMEWORK

Match extinguisher pictographs to the extinguisher's intended applications. Write the correct letters in the blanks.a. d.b. e. c. ab.

_____ 31.Class A and Class B fires but not Class C_____ 32.Flammable liquids_____ 33.Class B and Class C fires but not Class A_____ 34.Ordinary combustibles_____ 35.Class A fires but not Class B and Class C_____ 36.Electrical equipmentHOMEWORK

Select facts about fire extinguisher inspection, damage, and obsolescence. Write the correct letters in the blanks. ___ 37. Firefighter A says that fire inspectors should include extinguisher inspections in their building inspection and pre-incident planning programs.Firefighter B says that the servicing of portable fire extinguishers is the responsibility of the property owner or building occupant.Who is right?a. Firefighter A b. Firefighter B c. Both A and B d. Neither A nor B___ 38. Which organization/standard requires and explains the procedures for hydrostatic testing of extinguisher cylinders?a. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 c. IFSTA 1982b. HAZWOPPER 10.19 d. NFPA 10___ 39. Firefighter A says that hydrostatic test results must be recorded on the extinguisher cylinder.Firefighter B says that hydrostatic test results on high- and low-pressure extinguishers are recorded differently.Who is right?a. Firefighter A b. Firefighter B c. Both A and B d. Neither A nor BHOMEWORK

___ 40. Firefighter A says that damaged shells or cylinders should be discarded or returned to the manufacturer for repair or replacement.Firefighter B says that if an extinguisher shows only slight damage or corrosion, it should be given a hydrostatic test by the manufacturer or a qualified testing agency.Who is right?a. Firefighter A b. Firefighter B c. Both A and B d. Neither A nor B___ 41.Which of the following is not a method of determining whether an extinguisher is full and pressurized?a. Check the pressure gauge. b. Inspect the agent level.c. Weigh the extinguisher. d. Briefly squeeze the handle.___ 42.What is not a reason for removing an extinguisher from service?a. Out-of-date inspection tag b. Two or more years oldc. Deficient in weight by 10 percentd. Illegible operating instructions on nameplateHOMEWORK

___ 43. When did American manufacturers stop making inverting type fire extinguishers?a. 1982 b. 1980 c. 1976 d. 1969____ 44. Which of the following types of fire extinguishers is obsolete?a. Internal cartridge-operated water b. Sodium chloridec. Carbon dioxide d. Stored-pressure dry chemical___ 45. If an occupant asks firefighters to dispose of an extinguisher, what should they do?a. Dispose of the extinguisher in accordance with department policies and procedures.b. Refer the occupant to the local factory-authorized extinguisher disposal location.c. Explain that it is the occupants legal responsibility to dispose of the extinguisher.d. Instruct the occupant to return the extinguisher to its manufacturer HOMEWORK